der Darsteller
actor
A person who plays a role in a film, a play, or a television program. A synonym is Schauspieler (actor).
EXAMPLE
Der Hauptdarsteller des Films hat einen Oscar gewonnen.
The lead actor in the film won an Oscar.
der Darsteller
actor / representative
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Meanings
der Darsteller
representative
A person who represents something or presents it outwardly in a certain way. This meaning is less common and often meant figuratively.
EXAMPLE
In der Öffentlichkeit war er der perfekte Darsteller eines erfolgreichen Geschäftsmanns.
In public, he was the perfect representative of a successful businessman.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is derived from the verb 'darstellen' (to portray/represent), which means 'to show something' or 'to represent.' The ending '-er' denotes a male person, so a Darsteller is literally someone who portrays or represents something.
EXAMPLE
Er ist ein überzeugender Darsteller von komplizierten Charakteren.
He is a convincing actor of complicated characters.
Typical collocations
In the context of film and theater, 'Darsteller' (actor) is often combined with other words. Common ones are 'Hauptdarsteller' (lead actor), 'Nebendarsteller' (supporting actor), and 'Laiendarsteller' (amateur actor).
EXAMPLE
Für die Rolle wurde ein bekannter Hauptdarsteller engagiert.
A well-known lead actor was hired for the role.
Context clue
In the less common, figurative meaning, what the person represents is often specified. Pay attention to a genitive construction or the preposition 'von' (of), for example 'Darsteller eines bestimmten Lebensstils' (representative of a certain lifestyle).
EXAMPLE
Er galt als perfekter Darsteller des modernen, erfolgreichen Mannes.
He was considered the perfect representative of the modern, successful man.
Compare with
Darsteller vs Vertreter
representative / substitute
A Vertreter acts on behalf of a group or objectively stands for its position. A Darsteller can also embody an attitude outwardly, but this use is less common and usually figurative. For a specific representative role, Vertreter is therefore the better choice; for visible embodiment, Darsteller is more appropriate.
Darsteller
Als Darsteller der neuen Bewegung verkörperte er öffentlich ihre moderne Haltung.
As the embodiment of the new movement, he publicly conveyed its modern outlook.
Vertreter
Als Vertreter der Bewegung erklärte er ihre Forderungen bei der Versammlung.
As a representative of the movement, he explained its demands at the meeting.
In real life
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